Description
A thoroughly enjoyable read. I wasn’t sure what to find when I started reading this book, but it way exceeded my expectations, and I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. I didn’t know the author personally, but I bumped into him in the village shop a few times, hence being in possession of a copy of his book. He relates the story of his life as a police officer, and then as an undertaker, with a modest humour, a wry wit and a great deal of honest integrity. I can’t believe how many scrapes he ended up in, coming through with a smile, and getting away with doing things in his own way, which I truly admire. There are poignant moments too, related with sensitivity. I kept reading aloud entertaining sections to my husband, and the moment I finished the book, he pounced upon it. Now he is chuckling to himself as he reads it. – Chris M.
An insight to the life of a wonderful local character. This book provides a wonderful insight to the life of a local Police officer working in a rural area! Not to mention the observations of local characters and the musings of a hard-working drummer! An absolute quality read! – Julian G.
A true story, informative and amusing … brilliant book detailing how life used to be in the Police Force. Pity it’s not like it now where the police can use common sense to solve problems.
Bill Rowlatt was Eardisley’s last village bobby, later becoming the proprietor and funeral director at Oak Tree Funeral Services. One man, two careers and a wealth of stories from the 1960s to the present day, from policing the miners’ strike to undercover officer, drummer in a local band to Santa’s flying helper. In the words of a friend, ‘read this book with the expectation to be moved, thrilled, warmed and enriched by one of life’s good guys’.
Paperback with flaps | 280 pages | 198 x 129 mm | December 2023
c.50 b&w photographs
ISBN 9781910839713
Chris Malone (verified owner) –
I wasn’t sure what to find when I started reading this book, but it way exceeded my expectations, and I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. I didn’t know the author personally, but I bumped into him in the village shop a few times, hence being in possession of a copy of his book. He relates the story of his life as a police officer, and then as an undertaker, with a modest humour, a wry wit and a great deal of honest integrity. I can’t believe how many scrapes he ended up in, coming through with a smile, and getting away with doing things in his own way, which I truly admire. There are poignant moments too, related with sensitivity. I kept reading aloud entertaining sections to my husband, and the moment I finished the book, he pounced upon it. Now he is chuckling to himself as he reads it.
Paul Bayliss –
A very enjoyable read, made more so by the Author’s dry sense of humour and his familiarity with the areas mentioned in the later chapters. It reinforces just how much rural communities have altered in the past three or so decades. The days of local knowledge and mutual respect, that were essential in day-to-day policing, have quietly slipped away.
Russ Jones –
What an excellent book.
The read offer’s as much comedy as it does reality.
From start to finish the book has you hooked and Bill’s true character draws you in to continue reading page after page without wanting to stop.
Time flew past me reading this book and I found myself relaying many of Bill’s life experiences to others around me who have now taken to reading the book also.
A fantastic creation based on many of life’s twists and turns.
Bill’s unique way of doing things keeps the book upbeat and very enjoyable ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️